Some Fun Christmas Picture Books!
ABOUT THE BOOK
In the middle of a deep, dark forest, all the creatures are fast asleep. Except for a little gray wolf who cant sleep a wink. But the little wolf knows just what he needs to get a good nights sleep: a teddy bear to cuddle, just like in his favorite story book. So the next morning little wolf sets off on an adventure to find a teddy bear. But exactly where do teddy bears come from? The little wolf asks the Wise Owl, but he doesn't know. He asks the Three Little Pigs, but they suggest he speak to Little Red Riding Hood. Finally, when he is very tired the little wolf stumbles upon a kindly man with a bright red suit and a long white beard who needs a helping hand. But good deeds never go unrewarded. So when the little wolf wakes up the next morning there is a soft, cuddly surprise at the foot of his bed...and the answer to his question.
REVIEW
Where Teddy Bears Come From is a delightfully quirky take on several fairy tales but also Santa Claus. The illustrations and text fonts remind me distinctly of Lauren Child's style, but take on a life of their own. The little wolf is quite adorable as he persistently searches for the answer to his question. A fun book to read aloud as the differently sized text prompts the reader into reading with expression and verve. The twists to the fairy tales of the Three Little Pigs (who aren't so little and are female), and Little Red Riding Hood (who is really quite cranky) add a nice humorous touch to the story. It's also fun to wait and see if the reader can figure out that the old guy with the truck that the little wolf stops to help is Santa Claus. Recommended.
ABOUT THE BOOK
REVIEW
The concept behind this book is a really cute one. I can see children being really curious about what Santa does when he isn't delivering presents. However, I didn't find the poems quite up to snuff. Each poem addresses one of the eleven months outside of December and what Santa is doing during that time. But the poems don't seem to quite connect to each other. Despite that, the book is quite amusing as Santa spends time as a spy, a sumo-wrestler, sports fan, and beach bum. The illustrations really make the book as we get to see Santa doing some pretty amusing things. It's also fun to look for the elf and reindeer in each picture with Santa.
Bradley Bartelby is bad, VERY bad. He's greedy and naughty and selfish and spoiled - and Santa Claus knows it. But when beastly Bradley empties his Christmas stocking to find nothing but a pair of socks, he does quite the baddest thing he has EVER tried to do. He builds a trap - a SANTA TRAP With guillotines, dynamite and a tiger or two, Santa doesn't stand a chance. Or does he?
ABOUT THE BOOK
REVIEW
This book is a winner. All the children I've shared it with have gotten a kick out of it. Maybe it's because of the exaggerated humor, maybe it's because Bradley is so very bad, or maybe it's because it's satisfying to see Bradley get his just desserts, whatever the reason, the book provides an enjoyable reading experience. The text reads smoothly with lots of alliteration and just enough description. The illustrations complement the text perfectly with lots of silly details that children will enjoy looking at and talking about. A kid-pleaser for sure! Highly recommended.
ABOUT THE BOOK
REVIEW
Another fabulous Otis book, I just can't get enough of them. I adore the sweet and courageous tractor who is willing to do anything for his friends. When Otis's friend, the mare struggles to give birth, he sets out for the doctor despite a furious snowstorm. With the help of his shiny new horn, Otis once again manages to save the day in a satisfying way. I have to say though that while I love the story, it's the illustrations that win the day. They are so rich in feeling and color and detail. A wonderful story about friendship and sacrifice great for sharing!
The Santa Trap sounds really fun!
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